Nigerian-born Councillor Patience Ifediora has made history by becoming the first African female to be appointed Lord Mayor of Nottingham, United Kingdom. Her election was confirmed during a Full Council meeting on Monday, May 12, marking a proud and symbolic moment for the city’s African and Nigerian communities.

Representing the Aspley ward, Cllr Ifediora originally made history in 2015 when she became the first African woman elected to Nottingham City Council. Her new role as Lord Mayor further solidifies her legacy as a trailblazer in British local politics.

Council Leader Neghat Khan praised the appointment, stating, “With this nomination, we are poised to elect Nottingham’s first councillor of African background as Lord Mayor. That matters – not just to Patience, but to all of us. Nottingham is a city of inclusion, community, and diversity.”

Cllr Ifediora succeeds Cllr Carole McCulloch and is expected to bring her longstanding passion for community service and equality into the largely ceremonial but influential role. Her election is seen as a beacon of inspiration for the Nigerian diaspora and other minority communities striving for greater representation in UK public service.

Her story stands as a testament to the growing impact of Nigerians in the UK, particularly in leadership roles across politics, healthcare, business, and education.